Fifth Wheel vs. Travel Trailer: Tips on Choosing an RV

Investing in an RV is an excellent option for traveling around the U.S. and exploring all the fantastic places the country has to offer. However, there are many different types of RVs, and each one has specific advantages and disadvantages. The main two types available in the market are motorized RVs and towing RVs. Motorized RVs tend to be costly, while towing RVs such as fifth wheelers and travel trailers are more affordable. Fifth wheels and travel trailers can provide a great deal of space and comfort for a reasonable cost, making adventure more accessible. If you are thinking about buying a fifth wheel or a travel trailer, these are the main factors to consider.

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Fifth Wheels and Travel Trailers: The Essential Differences

Both fifth wheels and traveler trailers require towing by a motorized vehicle. When deciding between fifth wheels vs. travel trailers, there are some essential differences in size, cost, and convenience to take into account.

1. Size and Space

Fifth wheels tend to be larger than travel trailers and offer more space. For this reason, they can be an excellent choice for families with kids who need a bit of extra room. Large fifth wheels can have many amenities such as a small kitchen, a toilet, shower, a king-size bed, and a foldable couch. If you plan to take a fifth wheel on the road for a prolonged period, an RV cover can keep your trailer in excellent condition. Take a look at our selection of fifth-wheel RV covers to find the right fit. Travel trailers are a bit smaller and offer less interior space for relaxing and living. However, they are more compact; they still provide plenty of the same features as fifth wheels.

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2. Cost

While the price of fifth wheels and travel trailers can overlap, typically fifth wheels are more expensive. The cost of a fifth wheel ranges from $18,000 to $50,000, and that of a travel trailer ranges from $12,000 to $40,000. These prices depend on the size of the trailer, the brand, and what features that model offers.

3. Driving Experience

In general, a fifth wheel provides a safer and better driving experience. This is because a fifth wheel is easier to tow than a travel trailer. The design of a fifth wheel puts some weight on the back of the towing vehicle, centering the weight and providing more stability. Fifth wheels also tend to have a better hitch, which reduces sway movement and provides a smoother ride.

4. Weight

Weight is also important to consider when determining whether a fifth wheel or travel trailer is better suited to your situation. Remember that you should try to remain under 80% of your GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) for whatever you tow behind your car or truck. Ensure that the RV/travel trailer’s combined weight does not exceed this number before you commit to purchasing. Travel trailers usually weigh less, making them a more practical option for drivers with smaller vehicles.

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What to Consider When Buying an RV

When thinking about a fifth wheel vs. travel trailer, there are some basic points to consider. You should think about your travel plans and budget, among other things.

1. Your Travel Plans

If you plan to take short road trips and camping trips, then a travel trailer is perfect for you. It’s easy to maneuver and offers the necessary living space to be comfortable in the short term. However, if you are thinking about traveling around the U.S. for an extended period, a fifth wheel is like taking your home on the road and can provide a better experience for the long haul.

When traveling for a long time, RVs are often exposed to extreme heat and harsh weather conditions. They are also left outside in camping areas where they can be affected by dust, bird droppings, and pollen. If you want to keep your RV in great condition, RV trailer covers offer excellent protection. We offer a wide range of custom-fit RV covers that can help you protect your RV on the road and at home. Our custom Platinum Shield RV cover is made from high-quality woven polyester and provides excellent sun protection and water resistance.

2. Budget

In addition to the initial cost, you should consider the running fuel costs of the RV. Most travel trailers are more fuel-efficient than any fifth wheel because they are lighter and more compact, putting less strain on your vehicle.

3. How Will You Tow Your RV?

A key point to remember is that you need a 4x4 to tow a fifth wheel because of its weight and size. A travel trailer can be towed by a truck, SUV, or regular car.

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Keep Your RV Protected with a Quality Cover

At CarCovers.com, we offer a wide range of covers for RVs and other vehicles. An RV is a significant investment, and a quality cover can help you keep it in perfect condition for years to come. 98% of our customers give our products a 4.8 rating out of 5, indicating satisfaction with our products. We offer a 100% “fit your vehicle” guarantee so you can be confident in your purchase when you place your order online. If we send the wrong cover for your vehicle, we’ll replace it free of charge. Contact us for more information or assistance.